Thursday, May 9, 2013

GMOs

With all the media attention on it lately, I thought I would put in my two-cents on GMO foods.

First of all, what is a GMO? According to the Non-GMO Project, "GMOs are plants or animals that have been genetically engineered with DNA from bacteria, viruses or other plants and animals. These experimental combinations of genes from different species cannot occur in nature or in traditional crossbreeding." 

Honestly, I don't really know what do think. The science and research behind GMOs is relatively new. Both sides make valid arguments, in my opinion. The pro-GMOers talk about how GMOs allow farmers to produce more crops for lower prices. The non-GMOers point out the potential health risks of eating GMO food products.

Along with debating on whether GMOs should be allowed at all, the other big debate is over whether or not a company should be forced to label their products as GMO or non-GMO. Again, both sides make good arguments. Since GMOs have a negative connotation, companies are afraid people won't buy the food if they see that GMO label, even if the food is perfectly safe. On the flip side, people want to know what they're putting in their bodies, and labeling helps them make that decision.

I guess for me it just comes down to taking responsibility for yourself. Do your own research, don't rely on the media to make the decision for you. Decide what's right for you and your family and do it!

Here are some resources that I have found helpful. They include both sides, pro and anti-GMO,so you can make the decision for yourself.

http://www.saynotogmos.org/
http://www.betterfoods.org/
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/harvest/etc/links.html
http://www.chicksontheright.com/posts/item/24016-let-s-talk-gmos

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